(1888PressRelease)
September 14, 2008 - Written, Produced and Directed by Richard Berge, Bonni Cohen and Nicole Newnham, and co-produced by Robert M. Edsel, author of the film’s companion book, Rescuing Da Vinci, The Rape of Europa , based on Lynn H. Nicholas's landmark book, tells the epic story of the systematic theft, deliberate destruction and miraculous survival of Europe’s art treasures during the Third Reich and World War II. Joan Allen narrates this breathtaking chronicle about the battle over the very survival of centuries of western culture.
In a journey through seven countries, The Rape of Europa takes the audience into the violent whirlwind of fanaticism, greed, and warfare that threatened to wipe out the artistic heritage of Europe. For twelve long years, the Nazis looted and destroyed art on a scale unprecedented in history. But young art professionals as well as ordinary heroes, from truck drivers to department store clerks, fought back with an extraordinary effort to safeguard, rescue and return the millions of lost, hidden and stolen treasures.
“A MUST-SEE FILM… IT IS HAUNTINGLY UNFORGETTABLE” – The Forward
“PROVOCATIVE MASTERPIECE…” – Philadelphia Inquirer
“MAY BE THE MOST STUNNING DOCUMENTARY OF THE YEAR” – Toronto Star
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